Opodo

Opodo is a prominent online travel agency that offers a comprehensive range of services, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals, and vacation packages. Founded in Germany in 2001, Opodo was established by a consortium of European airlines, including British Airways, Air France, Alitalia, Iberia, KLM, Lufthansa, Aer Lingus, Austrian Airlines, and Finnair. This collaboration aimed to create a pan-European travel service catering to the diverse needs of travelers across the continent. Over the years, Opodo expanded its operations to 14 European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Poland, and Switzerland, as well as Nordic countries like Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland. In 2004, the travel technology provider Amadeus acquired a controlling stake in Opodo, increasing its ownership to 99.74% by 2008. In 2009, Amadeus fully acquired Opodo by purchasing the remaining shares from Air Lingus. In 2011, Amadeus sold Opodo to AXA Private Equity and Permira Funds, marking a significant shift in the company's ownership structure. Subsequently, Opodo became part of eDreams ODIGEO, a leading online travel company formed by the merger of eDreams, GO Voyages, and Opodo itself. This merger consolidated the three largest European online travel agencies, creating a robust platform for travelers seeking diverse and competitive travel options. Under the eDreams ODIGEO umbrella, Opodo continues to operate as a key brand, offering tailored travel solutions and maintaining a strong European identity. The company's headquarters are located in Barcelona, Spain, serving as a hub for developing and deploying innovative travel technologies and services to millions of customers across Europe and globally. Opodo's commitment to customer service and value has been recognized with accolades such as the British Travel Award for Best Flight Booking Website. The company remains dedicated to simplifying the travel booking process and providing customers with the best possible deals and experiences.